Football and cricket were his two great sporting passions and songs representing both were played at a service of celebration for the life of John Cushion.

A service of celebration was held to remember the life of John Cushion. Picture: Supplied.

The former news and sports reporter from Fakenham was laid to rest at Cromer Crematorium today.

The theme from Cricket Test Match Special was played at the start of the service, which was attended by more than 150 people, and the Norwich City FC Anthem at the end. In between, Monty Python’s Always Look on the Bright Side of Life was played.

Mr Cushion’s coffin was adorned with a Norwich City FC scarf and a Fakenham Town bobble-hat and mourners were asked to wear bright colours and a smile.

Known as ‘Cush’ to his friends, he made a name for himself in Norfolk after working for Archant as a Fakenham news and sports reporter for 45 years.

A service of celebration was held to remember the life of John Cushion. Picture: David Bale

The ceremony was conducted by Elaine Skinner, civil funeral celebrant, who said tributes to Mr Cushion had described him as “kind”, “wonderful” and “dependable”, and “an absolute legend as both a person and a journalist”.

She said: “He was a proud, true Norfolk boy and Fakenham loved him. His ashes will be scattered at Fakenham’s football and cricket grounds, and some will go to Australia, where his son Stephen lives, after emigrating in 2003. Stephen said he was an excellent father.

“Married three times, all his ex-wives hold him in fond memory. He always saw the best in people. He was a brilliant journalist and once interviewed the Queen at Sandringham.

“A huge music fan, especially of 1960s and ‘70s music, his favourites were Pink Floyd, The Beatles and Queen, and he had recently been playing John Lennon’s greatest hits before his death.”

John Cushion at Fakenham Town Football Club. Picture: Supplied.

She also read out a tribute from his friend, Steve Wright, who said: “he was my best mate, my drinking buddy and the older brother I never had.”

She finished her eulogy by quoting one of Mr Cushion’s favourite phrases, ‘Keep yew a troshin’.”

Mr Cushion was diagnosed with cancer 12 months ago but his condition deteriorated rapidly, and he died on May 15 at the age of 71.